PETER CULSHAW is hoping British rival Damaen Kelly achieves the impossible this weekend when the Irishman fights for the prestigious IBF world title.

PETER CULSHAW is hoping British rival Damaen Kelly achieves the impossible this weekend when the Irishman fights for the prestigious IBF world title.

Liverpool's record-breaking two-weight world champion has been promised first shot at the premier crown should the Irishman return victorious.

But 'The Choirboy' is not expecting an upset in the small and hostile Colombian town of Barranquila on Saturday night.

Kelly meets South American Irene Pacheco in his home country tomorrow, a fighter second only at the weight to American WBA kingpin Eric Morel.

Most worrying for Kelly is his 22 knockouts - an incredible figure, especially for a flyweight.

"I just hope Kelly gets back in one piece," said Culshaw, who admits to being a little disappointed not to have shared a ring with the Irishman first.

"I honestly believe he'll get stopped as Pacheco is one hell of a puncher.

"I don't envy Kelly at all having to go to some far corner of Colombia for this fight, that's for sure."

Yet Culshaw knows how a victory on a far off shore can boost your worldwide appeal and image.

Back in May 2000 Culshaw was given little chance when he travelled to Brakpan in South Africa to defend his WBU world title against 'Baby' Jake Matlala.

Thousands packed out the venue in Carnival City, but despite the extremely hostile surroundings, Culshaw returned with his title intact and a rating well inside the world's top ten.

Culshaw, who is expecting the birth of his second child this weekend, said: "It was crazy out in Africa, especially fighting a man like 'Baby' Jake who was worshipped out there, and it will be the same for Kelly this weekend, I am sure.

"Kelly has a very amateurish style in that he stands very upright, but he works hard and is always busy. He may even catch Pacheco out and rack up a handful of rounds, but he's going to have to stop the champion to win out there and there is very little chance of that."

* You can watch highlights of Kelly's IBF title challenge on BBC2 from 11.15pm this Sunday.